Make your wedding day special

By Michele Dotson Dotson.michele@minthilltimes.com

A bride never should never try a new hairstyle on her wedding day. Taking time to find a flattering style before the big day is a must. Brides-to-be got the chance to have their hair and makeup done as part of the festivities at the Bridal Showcase.

The 2014 Bridal Showcase held at the Charlotte Convention Center was packed with brides to be and their entourages looking for that special touch for an upcoming wedding.

There were vendors for venues, flowers, cakes, table linens, photography, wedding gowns, food, stationary, and entertainment. All the things one needs to plan, prepare, and remember that special day.

But there was more.

Dance lessons, chiropractic care, photo booths, real estate, hair styling, weight loss, spray tanning, luxury portable restrooms for that outdoor wedding, and even officiates promising to make your wedding day the best it can be.

Representatives from Mint Hill’s Old Sycamore Golf Plantation were on hand at Sunday’s Bridal Showcase sponsored by Belk, Party Reflections and The Knot.

The bottom line is, getting married is serious business.

According to www.costofwedding.com, couples that live in Mecklenburg County spend, on average, $20,365 on their special day.

So where does a Mint Hill Bride begin with so many things to think about?

Experts say, start with a vision, a plan, and a budget.

And stick to it.

The case for a wedding planner

The wedding planners at the Bridal Showcase were consistent in their message that having at least a wedding day organizer is a must. Most brides spend about 250 hours planning their weddings, so letting someone else handle the day-of issues allows the couple to enjoy their day.

Look for a wedding planner that offers a-la-cart services designed to meet your needs. Remember, you will be depending on this person to make the day go smoothly. Don’t forget to ask for references.

Current Trends

Your wedding might take place in an outdoor, rustic setting, but the restroom facilities don’t have to be. The 2014 Bridal Showcase featured a wide-range of wedding services, including Plush Flush, a luxury portable restroom.

The most current trends this wedding season seems to be adding a dash (or more) of color to the wedding dress.

“Colored belts and sashes are really popular right now,” says Brandy Krenz of David’s Bridal. “Blush and pink dresses are also popular.”

Wedding decor today is unified by more than just color. Themed weddings have become more common. Couples this season are opting for a beach theme, Gatsby theme, or even Eco-friendly and outdoor themes, with accents of, believe it or not, burlap.

Unconventional Brides

If a bride’s personality has always run parallel to the mainstream, a traditional white church wedding just won’t do.

An entire industry has sprung up around the unconventional brides that are more comfortable with a black wedding dress, a gothic dress, or even a short dress (to show off those neon high-tops). There is even a line of red wedding dresses for the truly daring.

Unconventional couples often opt for non-traditional reception settings such as the great outdoors, a barn, or another favorite location.

Make it special

Whether you envision a reception of barbecue and sweet tea in mason jars, burgers on the grill, or are more suited for designer gowns and a 5-star venue, stay true to who you are, and that vision of a perfect day is sure to be realized.